Little Cigarette Harlequin Moth
Common NameLittle Cigarette Harlequin Moth
Scientific NameBrenthia pavonacella
FamilyChoreutidae
SubfamilyChoreutinae
Wingspan (mm)8
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, white, black
HabitatWoodlands, forest edges, gardens, fields
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America
Host Plantshawthorn, apple, cherry, maple, oak, elm
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leaf-tiers, rolling or tying leaves of host plants together to feed within. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon, often within the tied leaves or leaf litter. Multiple generations occur per year.
Identification TipsEasily identified by its small size and unique, highly contrasting orange and white spotted pattern on a dark body and wings. Often rests with wings folded flat, resembling a bird dropping or a jumping spider.
Description
A very small, slender moth with a distinctive pattern of bright orange and white spots on a dark, almost black background, giving it a harlequin or checkerboard appearance. Its antennae are long and slender.
